U.S. patent application number 13/151864 was filed with the patent office on 2011-10-13 for telephone keypad with multidirectional keys.
Invention is credited to James Harrison Bowen.
Application Number | 20110248925 13/151864 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46329679 |
Filed Date | 2011-10-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110248925 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bowen; James Harrison |
October 13, 2011 |
TELEPHONE KEYPAD WITH MULTIDIRECTIONAL KEYS
Abstract
A telephone keypad for one touch text messaging the QWERTY
pattern of keys in a matrix of nine keys. Using the multi position
biasing keys only one touch is needed for each character, so in use
to input the letter "C" you touch one key one time, decreasing the
time spend text messaging from cell phones or desk tops and dialing
phone numbers advertised in letters. The keypad also has a shift
key to get upper case included in the nine keys, and a 2.sup.nd key
to double functionality of the keys.
Inventors: |
Bowen; James Harrison;
(Elizabeth City, NC) |
Family ID: |
46329679 |
Appl. No.: |
13/151864 |
Filed: |
June 2, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11980243 |
Oct 31, 2007 |
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13151864 |
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11189957 |
Jul 27, 2005 |
7855715 |
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11980243 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
345/168 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 3/0234 20130101;
H01H 13/84 20130101; H03M 11/14 20130101; H01H 2239/026 20130101;
H01H 2239/022 20130101; H01H 2231/022 20130101; H04M 1/23 20130101;
H01H 2221/016 20130101; H01H 2221/012 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
345/168 |
International
Class: |
G06F 3/02 20060101
G06F003/02 |
Claims
1-6. (canceled)
7. A multi-directional keypad switch, comprising a keypad housing
with a top surface; a lower mount surface; an emitter and detector
disposed on said lower mount surface, said emitter and detector
configured to permit said emitter to emit a light beam towards said
detector; and a key with a top surface exposed to operate said key,
said key being slidable in a lateral direction parallel to said top
surface, said key having a bottom surface with a slot perpendicular
to said top surface; wherein said slot in said bottom surface of
said key is positioned to straddle said light beam emitted by said
emitter, wherein sides of said slot in said bottom surface are
perpendicular to said lower mount surface, said sides of said slot
in said bottom surface attenuate substantially half of said light
beam when said key is in a central position; wherein when said key
is moved in a lateral direction from said central position that is
substantially ninety degrees to said light beam, said light beam is
laterally attenuated by said sides of said slot in said bottom
surface of said key; wherein said detector detects an amount of
lateral attenuation of said light beam and based on said amount of
lateral attenuation said detector determines a lateral position of
said key in said light beam, said lateral attenuation equates to
one or more lateral positions of said key at least one of which is
a lateral position prior to said key reaching a point where lateral
attenuation stops.
8. The multi-directional keypad switch of claim 7, further
comprising: a second emitter and a second detector disposed on said
lower mount surface substantially ninety degrees relative to said
emitter and said detector, said second emitter and said second
detector configured to permit said second emitter to emit a second
light beam towards said second detector; and wherein said bottom
surface of said key includes a second slot perpendicular to said
top surface; wherein said second slot in said bottom surface of
said key is positioned to straddle said second light beam emitted
by said second emitter, wherein sides of said second slot in said
bottom surface are perpendicular to said lower mount surface, said
sides of said second slot in said bottom surface attenuate
substantially half of said second light beam when said key is in
said central position, wherein when said key is moved in a lateral
direction from said central position that is substantially ninety
degrees to said second light beam, said second light beam is
laterally attenuated by said sides of said second slot in said
bottom surface of said key, wherein said second detector detects an
amount of lateral attenuation of said second light beam and based
on said amount of lateral attenuation said second detector
determines a lateral position of said key in said second light
beam, said lateral attenuation equates to one or more lateral
positions of said key at least one of which is a lateral position
prior to said key reaching a point where lateral attenuation
stops.
9. The multi-directional keypad switch of claim 7, wherein said key
is translucent; and further comprising a light emitting diode
disposed on said lower mount surface to emit illuminating light
through said key.
10. The multi-directional keypad switch, wherein said key is
configured to be moved laterally to positions where both said light
beam and said second light beam are attenuated at the same time,
and further comprising a means to triangulate the position of said
key based on output from said detector and said second
detector.
11. A keypad which can be used to enter numbers, alphabet letters,
or symbols using a plurality of keys where the keys are arranged to
mimic a "qwerty" keyboard, comprising: nine keys arranged in three
rows of three keys each where the three keys of said three rows are
arranged in columns, said three rows constituting a top row, a
middle row, and a bottom row, wherein each key of said nine keys
has a top surface which has a plurality of letters thereon, and
wherein each of said nine keys are slidable in at least two
different directions parallel to said top surface from a resting
position, wherein said three keys in said top row indicate at least
nine of ten letters of a top row of a "qwerty" keyboard and
indicate at least nine of letters Q, W, E, R, T, Y, U, I, O, and P,
wherein said three keys in said middle row indicate nine letters of
a middle row of a "qwerty" keyboard and indicate letters A, S, D,
F, G, H, J, K and L, wherein said three keys in said bottom row
indicate seven letters of a bottom row of a "qwerty" keyboard and
indicate letters Z, X, C, V, B, N, and M, wherein each of said nine
keys are positioned in a keypad housing with a top surface and a
lower mount surface, and wherein each of said nine keys includes a
key stem extending from said top surface of said keypad housing
towards said lower mount surface; one or more emitters and
detectors disposed on said lower mount surface, said one or more
emitters and detectors configured to permit said one or more
emitters to emit a light beam towards said one or more detectors;
wherein each of said nine keys has a bottom surface with a slot
perpendicular to said top surface; wherein said slot in said bottom
surface of each of said nine keys is positioned to straddle said
light beam emitted by said one or more emitters, wherein sides of
said slot in said bottom surface are perpendicular to said lower
mount surface, said sides of said slot in said bottom surface
attenuate substantially half of said light beam when said key is in
a central position; wherein when one or more of said nine keys is
moved in a lateral direction from said central position that is
substantially ninety degrees to said light beam, said light beam is
laterally attenuated by said sides of said slot in said bottom
surface; wherein said one or more detectors detects an amount of
lateral attenuation of said light beam and based on said amount of
lateral attenuation said one or more detectors determines a lateral
position of said key in said light beam, said lateral attenuation
equates to one or more lateral positions of said key at least one
of which is a lateral position prior to said key reaching a point
where lateral attenuation stops; and a one or more second emitters
and one or more second detectors disposed on said lower mount
surface substantially ninety degrees relative to said one or more
emitters and said one or more detectors, said one or more second
emitters and said one or more second detectors configured to permit
said one or more second emitters to emit a second light beam
towards said one or more second detectors; and wherein said bottom
surface of each of said nine keys includes a second slot
perpendicular to said top surface; wherein said second slot in said
bottom surface is positioned to straddle said second light beam
emitted by said one or more second emitters, wherein sides of said
second slot in said bottom surface are perpendicular to said lower
mount surface, said sides of said second slot in said bottom
surface attenuate substantially half of said second light beam when
said key is in said central position, wherein when said key is
moved in a lateral direction from said central position that is
substantially ninety degrees to said second light beam, said second
light beam is laterally attenuated by said sides of said second
slot in said bottom surface of said key, wherein said second
detector detects an amount of lateral attenuation of said second
light beam and based on said amount of lateral attenuation said
second detector determines a lateral position of said key in said
second light beam, said lateral attenuation equates to one or more
lateral positions of said key at least one of which is a lateral
position prior to said key reaching a point where lateral
attenuation stops.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part (CIP)application
of the patent application having U.S. Ser. No. 11/189,957 filed on
Sep. 27, 2005. The complete contents of the above-identified patent
application being herein incorporated by reference.
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED PATENTS
[0002] Design of the optical switch with depth and lateral
articulation used in the practice of this invention can be as
disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,705,783, 6,853,366, 5,502,460 and
5,644,338 in which are herein incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] 1. Field of the Invention
[0004] The present invention generally relates to a switch to be
used in mobile devices where a limited number of keys can
facilitate the same key outputs of regular full key QWERTY
keyboards, and wherein the switch is slid or biased to the side to
input a character so downward pressure in handling of the mobile or
desk top device will not actuate the switch facilitating one touch
per character text messaging is achieved.
[0005] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0006] Mobil and desk top telephones to date use an arrangement of
0 through 9 numbers with the letters on each of the number keys
arranged A,B,C,D,E, where to input a "C" an operator must touch the
two 2 key three times. The keys are also of the compression type so
if something is laid on them or they are grabbed from a pocket an
input can be made.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 5,528,235, Lin et al, shows a key that can be
depressed on each of its four sides to give an output.
[0008] Thumb boards to date used for mobile communications are
either standalone and plugged into other mobile devices or are
built into mobile communication devices.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] It is therefore the primary objective of this invention when
used in a desk top or mobile device to allow the user a QWERTY
keyboard in a small keyboard where depending on key arrangement can
be only three columns by three rows of keys that if a key depressed
will not give an input. Also using the multi position biasing keys
as in FIG. 31, FIG. 32, FIG. 41 and in FIG. 37 only one touch, or
slightly biasing the key in one direction, is used for each
character, so in use to input the letter "C" you bias the character
7 key toward the front one time, decreasing the time spend text
messaging, dialing phone numbers advertised in letters, or text
messaging from desk tops. This invention the letters are more
advantageously placed in the more familiar QWERTY pattern making it
easier to input characters faster.
[0010] It is a further objective of this invention in rugged
applications to have an optical sensor with a sensing means for a
switch position that is not in contact with the switch interrupter
being positionally sensed making the operation of the switch rugged
and impervious to a striking or operating force.
[0011] It is a further objective of this invention to have an
optical sensor sense with lateral articulation to enable a multiple
directional selection of various computer or mobile communication
device input functions.
[0012] It is a further objective of this invention to reduce the
number of keys in a more standard QWERTY keyboard, thumb board or
other mobile communications device, and to allow a standard desk
top telephone to have a QWERTY keyboard with only nine keys.
[0013] Briefly, this invention contemplates having at least one key
interrupter wherein the interrupter is banked by at least one
optically emitter detector pair with an optical beam there between.
The key interrupter blocks or partially blocks the optical beam
giving key location detection thus eliminating contact with the
sensing means. The key can be articulated in a lateral or sideward
direction to vary the optical beam emission to the detector to
input characters.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] The foregoing and other objects, aspects and advantages will
be better understood from the following detailed description of the
invention with reference to the drawings, in which:
[0015] FIG. 1 is a view of a six key QWERTY keyboard with indicia
on the housing in accordance with the teachings of this
invention;
[0016] FIG. 1A is a view of a six key QWERTY keyboard with indicia
on the keys in accordance with the teachings of this invention;
[0017] FIG. 2 is a view of a fifteen QWERTY keyboard in accordance
with the teachings of this invention;
[0018] FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a switch having a key and
stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with force
sensitive elements for position, lateral and bilateral detection in
accordance with the teachings of this invention;
[0019] FIG. 4 is an isometric view of a optical switch having a
musical key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface
with separate optical position and sideward detection and a tension
element for resistance in a downward direction in accordance with
the teachings of this invention;
[0020] FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a switch having a key and
stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with force
sensitive elements for position and sideward detection with roller
contact in accordance with the teachings of this invention;
[0021] FIG. 6 is a section view through the a switch showing the
key stem starting into optical detection in accordance with the
teachings of this invention;
[0022] FIG. 7 is a section view through a switch showing the key
stem at a mid point through optical detection starting to contact
the tension element resistance in accordance with the teachings of
this invention;
[0023] FIG. 8 is a section view through a switch showing the key
stem through optical detection and in full contact with the tension
element resistance in accordance with the teachings of this
invention;
[0024] FIG. 9 is a section view through a switch with position
force sensing element and optical sideward detection in accordance
with the teachings of this invention;
[0025] FIG. 10 is a section through an optical switch having a key
and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with
separate optical position and sideward detection and an elastomeric
resistance with a low resistance sideward articulation ball
mechanism in accordance with the teachings of this invention;
[0026] FIG. 11 is a section through an optical switch having a key
and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with
bi-directional sideward or lateral detection and an elastomeric
resistance with a low resistance sideward articulation ball
mechanism with pressure sensing downward detection in accordance
with the teachings of this invention;
[0027] FIG. 12 is a cross section view of a optical switch having a
key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with
optical position and sideward detection and an elastomeric
resistance in a downward direction beneath the stem in accordance
with the teachings of this invention;
[0028] FIG. 13 is a section view of a optical switch in a depressed
position having a key and stem protruding through a pivot and
sliding surface with optical position and sideward detection and a
tension element for resistance in a downward direction beneath the
stem in accordance with the teachings of this invention;
[0029] FIG. 14 is a cross section through a computer or musical
keyboard showing multiple optical switches in accordance with the
teachings of this invention;
[0030] FIG. 15 is a partial section view through an optical foot
switch in accordance with the teachings of this invention;
[0031] FIG. 16 is a plan view of a dual screen notebook computer
with a velocity, acceleration, and lateral detection keys used in a
split keyboard in accordance with the teachings of this
invention;
[0032] FIG. 17 is a section view of an optical switch with mirrors
to direct the optical beam in accordance with the teachings of this
invention;
[0033] FIG. 18 is a section view of an optical switch with a
serrated lower key stem to detect position and change in lateral
position of the key stem in accordance with the teachings of this
invention;
[0034] FIG. 19 is an electrical schematic of an optical switch in
accordance with the teachings of this invention;
[0035] FIG. 20 is an electrical schematic of a pressure sensitive
switch in accordance with the teachings of this invention;
[0036] FIG. 21 is a section view of a switch with optical and
pressure sensing elements for downward detection and low resistance
roller for lateral detection in accordance with the teachings of
this invention;
[0037] FIG. 22 is a side view of a keyboard with optical key
detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention;
[0038] FIG. 23 is a plan view of a keyboard with optical key
detection in accordance with the teachings of this invention;
[0039] FIG. 24 is a plan view of a musical keyboard with optical
key detection in accordance with the teachings of this
invention;
[0040] FIG. 25 is a flow diagram illustrating the keyboard
functions with key stem and sideward articulation detection in
accordance with the teachings of this invention;
[0041] FIG. 26 is a schematic illustrating the microprocessor
section of a keyboard with key stem position and sideward
articulation detection in accordance with the teachings of this
invention;
[0042] FIG. 27 is a schematic illustrating the elements of a
typical optical detector matrix of a keyboard in accordance with
the teachings of this invention;
[0043] FIG. 28 is a schematic illustrating the elements of a
typical optical emitter matrix of a keyboard in accordance with the
teachings of this invention;
[0044] FIG. 29 is a schematic illustrating the elements of a
typical pressure sensitive matrix of a keyboard in accordance with
the teachings of this invention;
[0045] FIG. 30 is a isometric view of a switch having a key stem
protruding through an elastomer element to allow the actuating
movement in a multidirectional sliding or X and Y direction in
accordance with the teachings of this invention;
[0046] FIG. 31 is a section view of a multidirectional switch in
accordance with the teachings of this invention;
[0047] FIG. 32 is a section view of a multidirectional switch in
accordance with the teachings of this invention;
[0048] FIG. 33 is a mechanical schematic of the emitters and
detectors showing their interrelation with each in accordance with
the teachings of this invention;
[0049] FIG. 34 is a cross section of a switch with X,Y and Z
directional movement in accordance with the teachings of this
invention;
[0050] FIG. 35 is a cross section of a switch with X,Y and Z
directional movement in the depressed condition in accordance with
the teachings of this invention;
[0051] FIG. 36 is a isometric view of a mobile device with a
keyboard and display in accordance with the teachings of this
invention;
[0052] FIG. 37 is a isometric view of a switch with X and Y sliding
movement in accordance with the teachings of this invention;
[0053] FIG. 38 is an isometric view of a optical switch having a
key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with
optical position and sideward detection and a tension element for
resistance in a downward direction in accordance with the teachings
of this invention;
[0054] FIG. 39 is an isometric view of a optical switch having a
key and stem protruding through a pivot and sliding surface with
separate optical position and sideward detection and a tension
element for resistance in a downward direction in accordance with
the teachings of this invention;
[0055] FIG. 40 is a cross section of a switch with multidirectional
movement in accordance with the teachings of this invention;
and
[0056] FIG. 41 is a section view of a multidirectional switch in
accordance with the teachings of this invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0057] Referring now to the drawings, in which the same reference
numeral indicates the same element in the various figures, FIG. 1
shows a pattern of keys in housing 630 to be used on any type of
device that needs a compact keyboard. Housing 630 shows
multidirectional keys 634 in key opening 632 with all of the alpha
QWERTY keys in a regular QWERTY keyboard but only having nine keys.
A reference for a more standard QWERTY keyboard is shown in FIG.
23. The keys of FIG. 1 are not in a standard telephone keypad
arrangement of A,B,C,D,E, where to input a C an operator must touch
the key three times. Being very advantageously marked with indicia
they are in the more familiar QWERTY pattern making it easier to
type faster. And using the multi position sliding keys as in FIG.
31, FIG. 32, FIG. 37 and in FIG. 41 only one touch, or sliding the
key in one direction is used for each character meaning if you want
to input the letter "C" you slide the character 7 key toward the
front one time. Further shown in FIG. 1 is some indicia is on
housing 630 and some is on multidirectional keys 634 allowing for
the indicia on the housing to be larger and more easily read. Down
arrow indicia 636 and side arrow indicia 635 shows that this key
can be used as a cursor positioning key wherein the detection is
further shown in FIG. 11, FIG. 25, FIG. 36, and FIG. 39. SHIFT
indicia 638 shows that the keys can move and be detected in
multidirectional positions also shown in FIG. 11, FIG. 25, FIG. 36,
and FIG. 39. Further shown in FIG. 1 SHIFT indicia 638 is a
direction that you position that associated key in, then another
key and that key is then shifted, the number keys would also be
shifted to the symbol above each number. Further in FIG. 1 there is
a 2.sup.nd key that when touched it can be used to change whether
an operator input numbers or letters, or other functions depending
on the application, it can also be used to change certain keys to
arrows for moving around on a display like down arrow indicia 636.
In an application where the device is used mainly for dialing a
phone number the device can have a menu that enables numbers first,
then touch 2.sup.nd and get letters and it could stay in 2.sup.nd
inputting letters until the 2.sup.nd is touched again to input
numbers. Or if the application requires letters first it enables
letters first and touch 2.sup.nd and get numbers. Obviously those
skilled in the art can appreciate different functions as a result
of touching the shift and or 2.sup.nd key.
[0058] FIG. 1A shows a pattern of keys 500 to be used on any type
of device that needs a compact keyboard, pattern of keys 500 with
one of the key pattern key 503 shows all of the alpha QWERTY keys
with key indicia 501 in a regular QWERTY keyboard but only having
nine keys. A reference for a more standard QWERTY keyboard is shown
in FIG. 23. The keys of FIG. 1 are not in a standard telephone
keypad arrangement of A,B,C,D,E, where to input a C an operator
must touch the key three times. Being very advantageous they are in
the more familiar QWERTY pattern making it easier to type faster.
And using the multidirectional sliding keys as in FIG. 31, FIG. 32
and in FIG. 37 only one touch, or sliding the key in one direction,
is used for each character meaning if you want to input the letter
"C" you slide the character 7 key toward the front one time.
Further shown in FIG. 1 is a SHIFT key, where you touch that key,
then another key and that key is shifted, the number keys would
also be shifted to the symbol above each number. Further in FIG. 1
there is a 2.sup.nd key that when touched it can be used to change
whether an operator input numbers or letters, or other functions
depending on the application, it can also be used to change certain
keys to arrows for moving around on a display. In an application
where the device is used mainly for dialing a phone number the
device can have a menu that enables numbers first, then touch
2.sup.nd and get letters and it could stay in 2.sup.nd inputting
letters until the 2.sup.nd is touched again to input numbers. Or if
the application requires letters first it enables letters first and
touch 2.sup.nd and get numbers. Obviously those skilled in the art
can appreciate different functions as a result of touching the
shift and or 2.sup.nd key.
[0059] FIG. 2 shows a larger key pattern 502 for devices that have
room for more keys and functions.
[0060] FIG. 3 shows a switch in systems that do not require the
rugged optical elements, shown with lower force sensing element 54
for depth, acceleration and velocity measurements flanked by left
side pressure sensing element 50 and right side pressure sensing
element 52 to be pressured by left force member 58 and right force
member 56 when key stem 29 is moved or oscillated in the direction
of lower lateral arrow 24. Bilateral pressure sensing element 53 to
be pressured by side force member 55 can be perpendicular to left
side pressure sensitive element 50 and right side pressure
sensitive element 52 and opposed by a second bilateral pressure
sensing element 51. When the application necessitates multi lateral
detection for input data to a host computer or the like this
arrangement of four pressure sensitive elements is advantageous.
But any one of the four can be used when singular lateral detection
is only needed. It should be appreciated that those skilled in the
art that there are different force sensing elements to name two are
resistive and capacitive either or others could be used, and in
conjunction with position sensing elements like hall effect
sensors, magnet sensors and RF based sensors.
[0061] FIG. 4 shows a musical key 60 being used to position stem
61. Optical slot 64 is made wide as not to attenuate second optical
beam 38 enabling in the up down direction to be attenuated by
optical slot top 62 in key stem 61, and can have pressure resistive
pad 23 if resistance to downward key motion is desired. If another
output function is needed pressure resistive element 23 can be
pressure sensitive so when pressed sending other codes depending on
the application. This is advantageous so there is only one optical
beam per function facilitating less computation, like a first
function could be up down and a second function be side ward or
lateral for vibrato and other inputs.
[0062] FIG. 5 shows a switch in systems that is more rugged than
the switch in FIG. 3 by having the addition of low resistant
rollers for side ward pressure. Lower force sensing element 54 for
being used for depth, acceleration and velocity measurements
flanked by left side force sensing element 50 and right side force
sensing element 52 to be pressured by left force roller 68 and
right force roller 66 when stem 30 is moved or oscillated in the
direction of lower lateral arrow 24.
[0063] FIG. 6 is a section view of a switch that has the
elastomeric material under the key cap. Key stem 70 being pivotably
and slideably received in pivot and sliding surface 19 is shown
before optical beam 20 is attenuated by lower surface 17 of key
stem 70. Elastomer pad 72 is shown prior to contacting pivot and
sliding opening 75. Key stem spring 74 holds key stem in an up
position being restrained in the up direction by key stem retainer
15 awaiting depression from an operator.
[0064] FIG. 7 is a section view of a switch with lower surface 17
in a mid position attenuating optical beam 20, and in first contact
with elastomer pad 72. Phantom line 73 shows the starting or up
position of key cap 71.
[0065] FIG. 8 is a section view of a switch with key cap 71
reaching the extent of downward travel of key stem 70 compressing
elastomer pad 72 and lower surface 17 further attenuating optical
beam 20.
[0066] FIG. 9 is a section view of a switch that uses optical
lateral or vibrato detection and a force sensing element for depth,
acceleration and velocity. Key stem 76 is shown in an up position
with optical beam 20 being straddled by optical opening 78. Whereas
when lateral movement is made by key stem 76 shown by lateral arrow
82 optical beam 20 is attenuated by the sides of optical opening 78
to be calculated by electronic circuit as shown in FIG. 26 and flow
chart in FIG. 25 to give distance, velocity and cycle times.
Pressure foot 74 will contact force sensing element 80 when key
stem 76 is in a down position. Pressure foot 74 can be an elastomer
of other spring type material. This is advantageous to give better
sideward or lateral movement control in applications that want
lower pressure for vibrato when in constant contact with force
sensitive element 80.
[0067] It is known in the art that FSR's have a force verses
resistance relationship such as 0.35 oz. with 10 ohms resistance,
3.57 oz. with 10K ohms resistance or otherwise a direct
relationship, but the distance of travel to obtain this resistance
change is virtually zero. So it can be advantageous to use an
elastomeric pad to contact the pressure sensitive element and
although the change in resistance is not as great, the durometer of
the elastomeric pad allows for more distance to be traveled by the
key stem giving a better feel and protecting the FSR from damage
resulting from severe force.
[0068] FIG. 10 is a section view of a switch in which key stem 84
has a pivot ball 96 to allow full sideward articulation in 360
degrees. Ball slide 98 slides up and down in pivot and sliding
opening 94 as shown by up and down arrow 88. Key stem lower surface
93 attenuates optical beam 91 in the up down direction. The sides
of optical opening 95 attenuates crossing optical beam 97 in the
direction of upper lateral arrow 10. Alignment surface 92 is nested
in pivot and sliding opening 94 keeping key stem 84 in a neutral
position until key stem 84 is pressed in a down direction allow
articulation of key stem 84 about pivot ball 96. Elastomer pad
O-ring 90 is shown to limit downward travel and to give resistance
to the movement of key stem 84.
[0069] FIG. 11 is a section view of a switch showing similar
elements of FIG. 10 but key stem 85 is longer and remains in
optical beam 91 and crossing optical beam 97. Optical opening 95
and crossing optical opening 93 straddling optical beam 91 and
crossing optical beam 97 unattenuating each until lateral
articulation is started. By having two crossing optical beams being
articulated triangulation can be made to direct a cursor or other
computer function with a small amount of force. Alignment surface
92 as explained in FIG. 10 is optional depending on designer
preference in as much as if alignment surface 92 is used then an
operator moving their fingers over the key surface will not allow
any attenuation of position, attenuation will only occur after
depressing key stem 85 thus releasing movement to allow
attenuation. Then if alignment surface 92 is not there then
attenuation of position can be at anytime the key stem 85 is moved.
Force sensing element 89 detects the up down key position with
varying pressure from key stem 85.
[0070] FIG. 12 is a section view of a switch showing key stem 112
in an up position prior to attenuating optical beam 108 with
optical slot top 106.
[0071] FIG. 13 is a section view of a switch of FIG. 12 showing key
stem 112 in a downward position from phantom line 73 attenuating
optical beam 108 with optical slot top 106 and in first contact
with elastomeric pad 110. It should be appreciated that key stem
112 could also have roller contact 79 like is shown in FIG. 21 to
reduce the lateral force being applied to key stem 112 while in
contact with elastomeric pad 110.
[0072] FIG. 14 is a section view of a keyboard showing the switch
of FIG. 6 in plurality. With key stem 70, optical beam 20, printed
wiring board 118 being housed in upper housing 114 and lower
housing 116. Having a plurality of switches allows the keyboard to
be used for various functions as in input computer codes to a host,
position a cursor, input cursor left, right and scroll codes to a
host, input Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) commands
for playing music, or input computer codes for playing music on a
PC.
[0073] FIG. 15 is a partial section view of a foot switch or foot
pedal having key stem 70 and optical beam 20 housed within upper
moveable housing 120 and lower housing 122 with pivot 124 there
between to allow movement of key stem 70 through optical beam 20
wherein movement can be varied by depressing upper housing 120 to
vary the output resultant from attenuating optical beam 20.
[0074] FIG. 16 shows a notebook computer with rear display 128
mounted in rear housing 126 attached to lower housing 132 laterally
adjoined by left side articulated key keyboard 136 and right side
articulated key keyboard 130 which can be fitted with any of the
key switches heretofore mentioned. A separate mouse positioning
apparatus is not needed because any one or more of the keys can
have mouse like articulation heretofore mentioned in delineation of
FIG. 2 and FIG. 11. Lower display 134 is disposed on lower housing
132. The arrangement of keys is split at a point to optimize typing
or use of the keyboard. This is also an ergonomically advantageous
of keys and display to keep your wrist straight, and if you are
typing or playing music your reference material, sheet music, or
the like can be placed on lower display 134 to keep your neck
straight and avoid looking to the side. Left side articulated key
keyboard 136 and right side articulated key keyboard 130 can in a
fixed position or if the notebook computer is going to be used for
travel then they can be made to retract over lower display 134. In
as much as FIG. 16 is presented as a notebook computer it should be
appreciated that those skilled in the art could think of the
notebook computer with very limited function as in just for playing
music, or just a split keyboard for use with a computer or musical
instrument with a surface for reference material like sheet music
or web notes.
[0075] FIG. 17 shows a different arrangement for directing optical
beam 142 being emitted from emitter 140 and being detected by
detector 144. Using emitter mirror 138 and detector mirror 146 both
emitter 140 and detector 144 can be surface mounted on printed
wiring board 141 to facilitate high production assembly of the
switch and or a keyboard.
[0076] FIG. 18 shows emitter 154 emitting a divergent optical beam
156 and being reflected by serrated detection surface 152 on the
lower surface of key stem 150 and back through detector beam 160 to
detector 158. When key 150 is moved in the approximate arc shown by
lower arc 148 this movement attenuates the detector beam 160 and to
show sideward or lateral movement of key stem 150. Downward
detection can be made by the ever decreasing amount of optical beam
incident on detector 158 as key stem gets closure to detector 158,
this downward detection can be made with serrated detection surface
152 being a smooth surface.
[0077] FIG. 19 shows emitter 162 and detector 164 are the only
electrical components needed in a singular optical key switch.
[0078] FIG. 20 shows pressure sensitive element 166 is the only
electrical component needed in a singular pressure sensitive key
switch. The pressure sensing element can be but not limited to
pressure sensing resistor or a pressuring sensing capacitor type
component, and as shown in FIG. 21 there can be multiple pressure
sensors to sense lateral positions. And although only three are
shown in FIG. 21 it is to be understood by those experienced in the
art that more or less could be used to increase or decrease
sensitivity in the lateral direction as shown by lateral lower
arrow 82.
[0079] FIG. 21 is a section view of a switch with roller contact 79
to apply pressure to pressure sensitive element 81 and to allow
lateral movement in the direction of lateral lower arrow 82 by key
stem 89 being pivotably and slideably received in pivot and sliding
surface 75 allowing the sides of optical opening 100 to attenuate
optical beam 85 being emitted from emitter 87. As an option
pressure sensitive element 81 can be flanked by left pressure
sensitive element 83 and right pressure sensitive element 77
allowing when key stem 89 is laterally articulated roller contact
79 can apply pressure to left pressure sensitive element 83 or
right pressure sensitive element 77 to output a vibrato type of
output or a code or codes to a host. This is advantageous to allow
lower pressure on a key or persons finger when laterally
articulating. The width of the pressure sensing elements can be
varied to better optimize either vibrato or computer key output
movements. Pressure sensitive element 83 could also be an
elastomeric pad like elastomeric pad 110 as in FIG. 13 when the
downward direction is to be sensed by optical beam 85 eliminating
the need for pressure sensitive elements. Optical opening 100 is a
hole through key stem 89 with optical beam 85 there through can
alternately be enabled after contact is made by roller contact 79
on pressure sensitive 81 to lesson any ambiguous attenuation of
optical beam 85.
[0080] The downward direction can also be sensed by pressure
sensitive element 81 and in the lateral direction by lateral
signature detection whereas the rolling effect is measured and
results to be different than a singular downward pressure.
[0081] FIG. 22 is a side view of the keyboard showed in FIG. 22
showing key cap 12, upper housing 170 and lower housing 168.
[0082] FIG. 23 is a plan view of a keyboard showing key cap 12 and
upper housing 170 can have a plurality of keys for computer input
to either playing music or normal operation of a PC. The pattern
number of keys can be varied to match a particular application.
[0083] FIG. 24 is a plan view of a keyboard with a long key 174 and
upper housing 172 with a musical pattern of keys. The number of
keys can be varied to match a particular set of notes or have a
piano set of 88.
[0084] FIG. 25 is a firmware flow chart showing key detection and
detection of velocity, acceleration and sideward or lateral key
movement of a keyboard with a plurality of key switches. With a
singular key switch there is no firmware needed with the switch it
would be provided by the host device, this flow chart is to be used
when a plurality of key switches are used on a keyboard. The flow
chart is shown being generic and can relate to optical or proximity
sensors or pressure sensitive components.
[0085] In INITALIZE ports are set to be in either input or output
conditions depending on use, ram is tested, and start up sequence
with the host is preformed. At SCAN KEY MATRIX a scan is made to
store a base line set of vales showing starting point where no keys
are pressed. A 100% number is assigned to each detector and is
based on the baseline value so all detectors can be computed and
said to be equal, in applications where more precise calculations
are needed for key articulation then a linearization would need to
be done on each sensor and that value put in a table to be called
when a percent of amplitude is needed. A scan is made to check if a
key has been detected at SCAN FOR KEY. A value of 80%, this value
can be changed to match a particular switch or keyboard application
need, is used at IS DETECTOR 80% SENSED to see if a key has reached
a down or interim position signaling the end of detection or just
before after pressure will be tested, if no then a test is made for
detector being sensed less than 10% or not sensed at IS DETECTOR
10% SENSED, no then a test is made to see if the host is sending at
IS HOST SENDING, if no then a return to SCAN FOR KEY.
[0086] If at IS HOST SENDING is yes then RECEIVE HOST DATA,
RESPOND
[0087] TO HOST if necessary and return to SCAN FOR KEY. If at IS
DETECTOR 10% SENSED the sensed signal is above 10% then COMPUTE
ACCELERATION, by reading and storing the first amplitude, compare
with next amplitude and count the time verses amplitude using a
percent to equal an acceleration. Then COMPUTE VELOCITY in the same
way using a percent to equal Velocity. The MATCH KEY OR OUTPUT
FUNCTION to a key or output function and SEND CODE TO HOST in a
data string with key code being first and the second being a data
byte to equal acceleration and velocity. Those skilled in the art
can appreciate that three bytes could be sent, one for each
function, key code, acceleration and velocity, or in a computer
keyboard where only a key code is needed then only be one byte.
These bytes can be either PS2 codes, ASCII codes or a custom code
derived for speed of transfer over a standard PS2link or other data
link systems like USB, serial or parallel, or to the 31250 baud
MIDI specification.
[0088] If yes at IS DETECTOR 80% SENSED a test is made at IS
LATERAL SENSED to see if a sideward or lateral articulation is
being made. This is done by testing if the side sensors have a
change is sensed value. This test could also be made prior to IS
DETECTOR 80% SENSED and is advantageous in applications where
lateral movement is made for other computer or musical products
like a mouse pointing device or for use by a handicap person that
cannot produce the force necessary to attain 80% pressure, or in
the case of the musical instrument where lateral movement is
vibrato and the vibrato is wanted above 80%, or to enter codes or
sequences of code like ctrl+C for copy and ctrl+V for paste, any of
which can be programmed into the keyboard or computer to be
recalled by the keyboard lateral direction. If at IS LATERAL SENSED
is yes then COMPUTE WHICH DIRECTION by testing which side or
triangulate to see the angled direction, then LOAD FUNCTION EQUAL
DIRECTION and go to MATCH KEY OR OUTPUT FUNCTION. If at IS LATERAL
SENSED is no then test IS SENSED OSCILLATING to see if the signal
is changing, then test IS SENSED AFTER 80% is no then go to MATCH
KEY OR OUTPUT FUNCTION. If IS SENSED AFTER 80% is yes then compute
after pressure by reading and storing the first amplitude, compare
with next amplitude and count the time verses amplitude using a
percent to equal after pressure. After pressure is more commonly
used in musical instruments when a key is held down, then the
musician can press harder and get a louder note, or now with the
ever changing need for more function from a computer or keyboard
the after pressure can be equated and assigned any function code
like a mouse, key, or a series of codes as in ctrl+V for paste.
Then go to MATCH KEY OR OUTPUT FUNCTION.
[0089] If at IS SENSED OSCILLATING is yes then by computing a
oscillation of the amplitude rising and falling at a rate being
done at COMPUTE OSCILLATION and got to MATCH KEY OR OUTPUT FUNCTION
where a data code value is assigned for the oscillation signature
whether it be vibrato or other assigned functions.
[0090] FIG. 26 is the micro processor schematic for a keyboard.
Keyboard micro processor 200 has various ports under control of the
firmware, one such port 202 is shown labeled PH referring to Port
H, these ports control the input/output of the keyboard, turning on
and off the emitters and detectors, and detecting varying voltage
amplitudes from the detectors. One such input/output is shown at
keyboard connector 204, others shown are for MIDI, FM, IR, MOUSE
and USB.
[0091] The quantities of keys vary with different keyboards for
different applications as shown in FIG. 16, FIG. 22 and in FIG. 24.
FIG. 27 shows a typical detector matrix, and FIG. 28 shows the
detectors matching typical emitter matrix, and depending on the
number of detectors and emitters needed in a given keyboard these
typical matrixes can be decreased or increased to match the
application. In operation PFET 220 is turned on to give a positive
bias to signal resistor 222 by output port 221, at the same time
NFET 229 is turned on to give a negative bias to the cathode of
detector 226 by port 221. A voltage amplitude is then seen over A/D
resister 222 and at A/D input port 225. This voltage amplitude will
then vary depending on the amount of light that is emitted to
detector 226. The amount of light that can be emitted to the
detector is governed by the position of the key stem, one such is
key stem 30 of FIG. 1. If the key stem or interrupter is not
depressed then the majority of light from an emitter is received by
the detector, then depending on the amount of depression by the
user on the key stem varying amounts of light will be seen as
voltage amplitude changes at port 225. Isolation diode 228 isolates
detector 226 to maintain proper voltage bias.
[0092] In FIG. 28 PFET 230 is turned on by port 234 to give a
positive bias to emitter 232 through current limiting resistor 231.
NFET 233 is then turned on by port 234 the give a negative bias to
emitter 232 thus illuminating emitter 232. Using a matrix like is
shown in FIG. 27 has two distinct advantages, one being a power
saving in overall current drain from the host because the detectors
are alternatively turned on, and two, isolating detector emitter
pairs to limit cross talk between different detector emitter
pairs.
[0093] In FIG. 29 it shows a similar sensor matrix as in FIG. 26
with the exception the sensors are pressure sensitive and do not
need an opposing emitter matrix. In operation PFET 240 is turned on
to give a positive bias to signal resistor 248 by output port 252,
at the same time NFET 250 is turned on to give a negative bias
sensor 244 by port 252. A voltage amplitude is then seen over A/D
resister 248 and at A/D input port 246. This voltage amplitude will
then vary depending on the amount of pressure that is applied to
the key stem to sensor 244. The amount of pressure that can be
applied to the sensor is governed by the position of the key stem.
If the key stem is not depressed then there is no pressure on
sensor 244, then depending on the amount of depression by the user
on the key stem varying amounts of pressure will be seen as voltage
amplitude changes at port 246. Isolation diode 242 isolates sensor
244 to maintain proper voltage bias.
[0094] In FIG. 30 it shows key top 300 with indicia printed
thereon. Directional X arrow 304 and Y arrow 302 show the X and Y
movement. Key stem 318 protruding through elastomer element 330 is
allowed to move in an X and Y direction, and staying on the X and Y
plane can move at any angle an operator would choose. Printed
wiring board 322 retains emitters 328 and 324, and detectors 316
and 312 which can have control circuitry. Key stem 318 has slots
with an X center edge 326 and when in the rest or normal position
intersects X beam 320, and at an intersecting angle has slots with
a Y center edge 310 and when in the rest or normal position
intersects Y beam 314. These center edges intersecting these beams
are advantageous to show the direction that the key top 300 and key
stem 318 are moving. If X center edge 326 is moved in one direction
it starts to block X beam 320 more, if X center edge 326 is moved
in the opposite direction X beam 320 is blocked less. So by
measuring the amplitude of X beam 320 the direction of key top 300
can be sensed. The same is true of Y center edge 310 and Y beam
314.
[0095] FIG. 31 showing a cross section of a slim style of keyboard
with an elastomer keys 340 being housed by a top cover 346 and
bottom cover 356. Elastomer keys 340 being one piece and
positionally retained to a resting position by rib 338 to maintain
the alignment over emitter 332 with a light beam 352 being received
by detector 354 with an intersecting light beam 350 being received
by detector 336 being received by printed wiring board 358 that can
have circuitry to control detection of key movemovement. Having rib
338 isolates other adjoined elastomer keys 340 so the movement of
one key will not effect another. Elastomer key 340 when moved in
the direction of directional arrow 347 attenuates light beam 350 to
show direction of movement of elastomer keys 340. Illuminator 348
can emit a light beam 334A to 334B to illuminate a particular key
to show depressed and or guide an operator through a sequence of
keys, or just be used to illuminate the keyboard.
[0096] In FIG. 32 it shows a cross section similar to FIG. 31
except that key 360 is separate from key 366 being positionally
retained in a resting position by rib 364. It should be appreciated
to those skilled in the art that key 360 being shown as an
individual key could be fabricated from a material other than an
elastomer, whereas key 360 could be a rigid material with a spring
means retaining it in a resting position. Key nib 367 on key 366
can be used to facilitate movement of keys in a lateral direction.
View 362 at LEVEL 362A shows the emitter and detector positions as
shown in FIG. 33. FIG. 33 is a mechanical schematic of the
positions of emitter 332 and 368 with beams 352 and 350 being
received by detectors 336 and 354. With illuminator 348 emitting
beam 344.
[0097] FIG. 34 shows a key and detection means to detect movement
in the X, Y and Z directions. Key 428 is retained in upper housing
422 by snaps 424 with spring 378 holding key 426 in a non-depressed
position. Recess 428 can be used to retain removable indicia. Slot
372 with a center edge 370 attenuates beam 420 to show direction of
movement of key 426. Elastomer ring 376 gives a first stop for
showing when key 426 has reached a first stop. Quad mirror support
390 supports mirrors 418 and 402 to direct beam 400 from emitter
404 to detector 416 being received on printed wiring board 412, and
cover by bottom cover 414. Illuminator 408 with beam 410
illuminates key 426 through key opening 374. Down position top slot
380 attenuates beam 400 when key 426 reaches first stop position
when elastomer ring 376 is in first stop against top cover 422,
then when key 426 is further depressed elastomer ring 376 becomes
oblong and further attenuates beam 400. This is advantageous so
velocity can be sensed of key 426 by timing the time key 426 starts
to attenuate beam 420 and beam 420 until elastomer ring 376
contacts upper housing 422, then after pressure is sensed from the
continuing pressure and the amount of compression of elastomer ring
376.
[0098] FIG. 35 shows a cross section of the switch in FIG. 34 in a
depressed condition with key 426 lower surface 406 attenuating beam
400.
[0099] FIG. 36 shows a mobile device with housing 458 and display
456, and a pattern of keys as in FIG. 31 and FIG. 32. Mouse
positioning key 461 having X and Y sensing can by triangulation
using the beam 350 and beam 352 of FIG. 31 can position a mouse
cursor on display 456.
[0100] FIG. 37 shows a key 454 being held in elastomer 452 to
retain key 454 in a resting position while still allows key 454 to
move. Key 454 with a conductive lower surface 442 that when moved
in direction 432 "T" connects printed wiring board traces 448 and
444 resulting in connection of circuits connected to pads 445 and
443 that can be connected to a control circuit for detecting key
454 direction. When key 454 is moved in direction 430 U is connects
traces 438 and 440 resulting is key 454 movement in the direction
430 "U" direction. Pad 436 is used to detect key 454 movement in
direction 432 "I", and pad 450 is used to detect key 454 movement
in the direction 430 "Y" direction. When key 454 is moved in a
forty five degree direction then it would connect both sets of pads
associated with that direction. As in if key 454 was positioned in
the direction of 430 "U" and 432 "T" it would connect traces 448,
444, 440 and 438 and show a forty five degree movement in that
direction thus giving a triangulation showing direction. It should
be appreciated to those skilled in the art that traces 448 and 444
could be different shapes or sizes and still function as contacts.
It should also be appreciated to those skilled in the art that
conductive surface 442 could be a carbon deposit or a separate and
different material than key 454 is fabricated from.
[0101] FIG. 38 shows a top surface 14 with pivot and sliding
opening 13 allowing key stem 30 to slide in an up down direction as
shown by up down arrow 32 and pivot or be sideward articulated as
shown by upper lateral arrow 10. Key stem 30 having an optical
opening 22 with optical opening top 34. When key stem 30 moves in a
downward direction optical opening 22 with sides that straddle
light beam 20 and allows light beam 20 to pass through until
optical opening top 34 attenuates light beam 20 giving the position
of stem 30. Emitter 28 and detector 16 can be mounted on printed
wiring board 18 that can have circuitry to modulate the on and off
conditions of each. Elastomeric pad 26 is disposed on printed
wiring board 18. When elastomeric pad 26 or tension element is
contacted by key stem 30, key cap 12 can be pivoted in a sideward
direction. The resultant pivot direction of key stem 30 from upper
lateral arrow 10 is shown by lower lateral arrow 24 and the sides
of optical opening 22 modifies the resultant emitence of light beam
20 emitted from emitter 28 and incident on detector 16. The
clearance between key stem 30 and pivot and sliding opening 13 can
be matched to a users preference in as much as more clearance to
get more angle of pivot to less clearance to get less angle of
movement. At any time from when light beam 20 starts to be
attenuated measurements can be made from that point until or during
resistance has been felt by elastomeric pad 26 to equal velocity
and acceleration from an operator pushing key cap 12. From the
point that resistance is felt measurements can be made that can
equal after pressure optically, or the amount of compression
elastomeric pad 26 is being compressed optically. Tension elements
like elastomeric pad 26 can be made from different durometer
elastomers or other spring type components to give the feel
conducive to an operator's preference. After pressure can be plus
or minus so if the operator presses harder then softer the distance
traveled can be equated to a computer function or when used in a
musical instrument a louder or softer tone or note. It should be
appreciated by those skilled in the art that the elements shown in
FIG. 38 could be replicated to form a multi key keyboard.
[0102] Elastomeric pad 26 is not a requirement to be used to detect
the depth in position of key stem 30, in some systems it may just
be a stop to stop the downward motion of key cap 12. If elastomeric
pad 26 is not used depth can be measured through the attenuated
range of optical beam 20, velocity from a point to a point can be
measured, and acceleration can be measured because all measurements
are in distance. This can be advantageous for an operator to use
position in place of pressure, as in musical notes from a Trombone
where notes are from the position of the slide, or for a handicap
person that cannot apply a force sensing elements required force to
get a pleasing output.
[0103] The tension element elastomeric pad 26 can be of the type
used in FIG. 6 where that elastomeric pad 72 is placed in the key
cap 12.
[0104] When key cap 12 is pivoted or oscillated in a sideward
direction light beam 20 will be attenuated by the sides of optical
opening 22 and can be measured as a distance to give acceleration
and velocity, these measurements can equal a computer function or
when playing music it can equal a vibrato effect. This is
advantageous when oscillated to be able to have music actually
sound as if it was coming from an actual musical instrument where
sideward movement of a musicians fingers affect the mouth piece
mouth relationship giving a varying intensity or vibrato effect.
This is also advantageous when pivoted by a computer operator to
input a function, like pivot the keyboard key to the left and get
Ctrl+V to paste, and pivot the key to the right and get Ctrl+C to
copy. When switch of FIG. 38 is used in a keyboard in plurality
each key could output the same code or sequence of codes allowing
ctrl+C or ctrl+V or any other code or sequence available with any
typing finger while inputting data or playing music.
[0105] FIG. 39 having the similar elements as FIG. 38 with the
addition of a second emitter 44 and second detector 42 having a
second optical beam 38 there between being attenuated in the up
down direction by second optical opening top 40 in key stem 31 and
attenuated in the front to back direction shown by upper front back
arrow 46 giving a resultant movement in direction shown by lower
front back arrow 48 by second optical opening 36. Having two
emitter detector pairs bi-directional alignment allows selection of
computer or musical functions in four directions or by
triangulation in multiple directions, and when the output is
directed to a mouse port can give cursor control.
[0106] FIG. 40 is a cross section of a switch with multidirectional
movement where pivot 604 allows conductive key 602 with a contact
surface 600 to connect to contact 606 when conductive key 602 is
pivoted toward contact 606.
[0107] FIG. 41 showing a cross section of a slim style of keyboard
with housing 630 of FIG. 1 and one of multidirectional keys 634
with a key edge 640 that can be restricted in movement buy key
opening 632. Key movement plane 642 shows the plane of three
hundred and sixty degree movement that multidirectional keys 634
can be directed for detection.
[0108] While the invention has been described in terms of a single
preferred embodiment, those skilled in the art will recognize that
the invention can be practiced with modification within the spirit
and scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *